Post Extraction Care & Instructions

These are some basic instructions to help you with the care and maintenance of your mouth following an extraction.  Following these instructions will insure the best healing results.
  1. All these things done during for the first 48 hours after an extraction can cause a very painful dry socket.
    No drinking carbonated drinks (coke, sprite, club soda, etc).
    No drinking with a straw.
    No smoking or chewing tobacco.
    Avoid very hot foods/liquids. 
  2. Do NOT rinse your mouth today or do any excessive spitting.
  3. Following the extraction, some bleeding is normal, use the gauze as directed to keep pressure on the area for the next thirty minutes.  Please note that the area will continue to ooze and this is a normal part of the healing process.  If excessive bleeding continues, please call our office at once.  The number is (409) 721-5212.  Do not lie flat!
  4. You may notice some minor swelling.  If swelling occurs apply ice, in a towel, to the area and leave on for one hour (alternate 15 minutes on the area, to 15 minutes off).
  5. You may have some discomfort after the extraction.  To help with this, use any over the counter type of medication (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Extra-Strength Tylenol).  If Dr. Showalter prescribes stronger medication for you, remember to always eat something prior to taking any medications and take only as directed.  Note that most pain medication can make you drowsy, so please use extreme caution and do not operate a vehicle or any type of machinery while taking your prescription.  Do not over heat if you return to work.
  6. For the first 24 hours after the extraction, a light diet is advised.  Soft foods that do not take a lot of chewing effort are best.
  7. In very rare occasions, you may notice or feel a fragment working its way up through the extraction site.  This situation is rare, but normal, so do not be alarmed.  These fragments are not roots but tiny particles of bone.  If annoying or uncomfortable return to our office for their simple removal.
  8. After 24 hours, rinse your mouth GENTLY every 3 to 4 hours, especially after meals, with warm salt water.  (Use 1/4 teaspoon to 1 cup warm water)  Continue rinsing with the warm salt water for 4 to 5 days.
Remember to contact our office immediately if any unusual symptoms occur.  If a problem occurs after hours or on a weekend, the office recorder will tell you how to get in touch with Dr. Showalter.  The key to a successful surgical procedure is strict compliance with the above mentioned rules.  Your co-operation will speed up your recovery and prevent complications.